Kia Picanto Top Speed: Complete Guide to Every Engine, Year & Variant

We set out to create the most comprehensive and authoritative guide on Kia Picanto top speed—a fully detailed, data-rich resource that helps drivers, buyers, and enthusiasts instantly understand how fast each version of the Picanto can go, from its earliest launch in 2004 through the latest modern updates.

This guide goes deeper than the typical summaries online. We break down every generation, every engine, every power output, and every transmission, offering a clear, structured comparison that helps you know exactly where each Picanto variant stands.

Understanding Kia Picanto Top Speed Across All Generations

The Kia Picanto has been produced across multiple generations with a wide range of engines—mostly small, efficient petrol units designed for reliability, low running costs, and urban agility. Depending on the model year and power output, top speeds vary from around 150 km/h to approximately 170 km/h.

Below, we examine each generation in detail.

Kia Picanto Top Speed by Generation (2004–2020+)

First Generation (2004–2011): Top Speed Overview

The original Picanto introduced Kia’s compact city-car formula to the world. With mainly 1.0L and 1.1L petrol engines, performance figures were modest but ideal for urban driving.

Key Engines & Top Speeds

Performance Summary

• Perfect for city driving
• Simple and robust engines
• Top speeds mainly under 160 km/h

Second Generation (2011–2017): Top Speed Improvements

The second-gen Picanto delivered more refinement, slightly more power, and better aerodynamics—allowing higher top speeds in most trims.

Key Engines & Top Speeds

Performance Summary

• Most 1.0L engines reach around 160 km/h
• Larger 1.2L variants stretch up to ~170 km/h
• More modern, quieter, and quicker than the first generation

Third Generation (2017–2020+): Modern Speed & Efficiency

The latest Picanto generation offers the best performance yet. Lightweight construction, new engines, and better gear ratios help the Picanto achieve higher speeds while still sipping fuel.

Key Engines & Top Speeds

Performance Summary

• Entry-level 1.0 MPI models match earlier 1.2L speeds
• Turbocharged versions exceed 180 km/h, the highest ever for a Picanto
• Improved acceleration, stability, and refinement

Full Kia Picanto Top Speed List (All Known Variants)

To help you compare easily, here is a consolidated list of top speeds across all typical Picanto power outputs.

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Top Speed by Horsepower

Top Speed Breakdown by Transmission Type

Manual Transmission

• Typically produces the highest top speeds
• Most efficient use of engine power
• Better suited for achieving maximum velocity

Automatic Transmission

• Slightly lower top speeds in older models (losses due to gearbox tuning)
• Modern automatics close the gap significantly
• Ideal for urban drivers prioritizing comfort

Top Speed by Body Type

The Picanto is primarily sold as a 5-door hatchback, and top speed differences are minimal across trims. However:

• Sportier trims (GT-Line, GT) benefit from improved aerodynamics.
• Older base models may have slightly lower top speeds due to lighter engines or gearing.

Factors That Influence Picanto Top Speed

Engine Power

Small-size engines affect top speed directly. More horsepower generally equals higher top speed.

Weight & Aerodynamics

Later models are lighter, stiffer, and better shaped—boosting efficiency and speed.

Gear Ratios

Manual transmissions often deliver better top-speed performance due to more direct power delivery.

Tire Size

Larger wheels (15–16 inch) may slightly increase or decrease achievable top speed depending on rolling resistance.

Which Kia Picanto Is the Fastest?

The fastest Picanto ever produced is the:

1.0 T-GDI Turbo (99 hp) – Top Speed: 182 km/h

This engine delivers:

• Strong mid-range acceleration
• The highest top speed of any Picanto
• Modern turbocharged power with great fuel economy

Is the Picanto Fast Enough for Motorway Driving?

Yes—especially post-2011 models, which offer:

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• Comfortable cruising between 100–130 km/h
• Stable handling at higher speeds
• Adequate power for overtaking on highways

Earlier 1.0L engines (61–65 hp) can feel strained but are still legally capable of motorway speeds.

Kia Picanto Top Speed Comparison With Competitors

Hyundai i10

• Similar engines and platform
• Speeds nearly identical to Picanto

Toyota Aygo / Peugeot 108 / Citroën C1

• Typically lower horsepower
• Top speeds around 155–160 km/h

Volkswagen Up!

• Slightly stronger engines
• Top speed up to 170–180 km/h

Overall, the Picanto is competitive within its class, particularly with turbo variants edging ahead.

Performance Tips for Achieving Maximum Top Speed

• Use high-quality fuel
• Maintain correct tyre pressure
• Ensure engine oil and filters are fresh
• Avoid excess weight in the cabin
• Use manual transmission where possible

Conclusion

The Kia Picanto may be compact, but across its generations it has become quicker, more refined, and more capable. Depending on the engine and year, top speeds range from 150 km/h for early models to nearly 182 km/h for the modern turbocharged variant.

Whether you're comparing trims, evaluating performance before buying, or simply curious about its capabilities, this guide offers the clearest and most comprehensive breakdown available.

FAQs

1. What is the highest top speed of any Kia Picanto?

The fastest Picanto is the 1.0 T-GDI, reaching up to 182 km/h.

2. Do all Picanto engines exceed 150 km/h?

Yes—every production engine from 2004 onward can surpass 150 km/h.

3. Does manual transmission improve top speed?

Generally yes; manual models usually achieve slightly higher speeds.

4. Are older 1.0L Picantos slower?

They top out between 150–154 km/h, slower than modern engines but still adequate for normal driving.

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5. Which Picanto is best for motorway driving?

The 1.2 MPI and 1.0 T-GDI variants offer the strongest performance and most comfortable cruising.

If you want to know other articles similar to Kia Picanto Top Speed: Complete Guide to Every Engine, Year & Variant you can visit the category Driving.